Braz. J. Med. Biol. Res. [JOURNAL]
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200 papers
Metformin attenuates fructose-induced pulmonary fibrosis, possibly through the involvement of the TRPC6 channel.
Kaya BS, Öner O, Ercetin D … +4 more , Aydın MA, Akbas E, Metin MS, Kaya O
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41810646 · Full text
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, fatal lung disease characterized by abnormal lung tissue repair and intense collagen accumulation in the lungs. Despite intensive efforts, no specific treatment has been foun...
Pulmonary fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, fatal lung disease characterized by abnormal lung tissue repair and intense collagen accumulation in the lungs. Despite intensive efforts, no specific treatment has been found. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a high-fructose diet on lung tissue, whether the use of metformin corrects the damage caused by high fructose, and the possible relationship with transient receptor potential (TRP) channels. Lung damage was induced by adding 200 g/L fructose to the drinking water of Sprague-Dawley rats (n=32) for 10 weeks. In the groups in which the effect of metformin was examined, metformin (dissolved in saline) was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of 100 mg/kg in the last two weeks of the study. Inflammation and TRP channel levels were measured by ELISA. Histopathological evaluation was also assessed by Masson's Trichrome staining. A high-fructose diet caused collagen deposition, inflammation, and intra-alveolar hemorrhage in lung tissue. Interleukin-6 and TRPC6 channel protein levels in lung tissue were higher in the high-fructose group than in the control group. These effects were prevented by metformin treatment. Metformin administration and manipulation of TRPC6 channels may be a therapeutic target for the treatment of pulmonary fibrosis.
Disulfidptosis modification patterns are involved in the immune microenvironment regulation of septic acute respiratory distress syndrome.
Zhang Q, Ge J
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41810645 · Full text
Disulfidptosis is a new form of programmed cell death. However, there is limited information available regarding the impact of disulfidptosis on septic acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The 16 disulfidptosis-re...
Disulfidptosis is a new form of programmed cell death. However, there is limited information available regarding the impact of disulfidptosis on septic acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). The 16 disulfidptosis-related genes (DRGs) were collected from a previous study. Gene expression data of sepsis and septic ARDS samples were downloaded from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The risk score model in septic ARDS was constructed based on the DRGs, followed by the investigation of immune microenvironment in septic ARDS patients. Furthermore, septic ARDS patients were divided into different subtypes based on disulfidptosis modification patterns, and their immune characteristics were investigated. Finally, the differentially expressed genes among different subtypes were identified, and a diagnostic model was constructed. The risk score model based on 6 DRGs was constructed to distinguish sepsis patients from septic ARDS patients, with good performance. The immune microenvironment in septic ARDS patients was slightly different from sepsis patients. Additionally, septic ARDS patients were divided into two subtypes based on DRGs. Finally, three diagnostic models based on 3 hub genes were constructed to classify the two subtypes in septic ARDS patients. Our findings indicated that disulfidptosis might play a role in the immune microenvironment of septic ARDS.
Effects of combined trunk stretching and lumbar stabilization exercises for chronic non-specific low back pain: a randomized clinical trial.
Coutinho CCC, Sampaio DDA, Pereira NDC … +3 more , Pássaro AC, Oliveira VMA, Casarotto RA
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41810644 · Full text
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of combining trunk stretching with lumbar segmental stabilization versus exclusively performing lumbar segmental stabilization exercises for treating chronic nonspecific low...
This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of combining trunk stretching with lumbar segmental stabilization versus exclusively performing lumbar segmental stabilization exercises for treating chronic nonspecific low back pain (CNLBP). Thirty-four CNLBP subjects were randomized into two groups: active trunk stretching + lumbar segmental stabilization (AS+LSS, n=17) and placebo stretching + lumbar segmental stabilization (PS+LSS, n=17). One-hour sessions were performed twice a week for six weeks. Pain intensity, pain quality, functional disability, global impression of recovery, emotional state, symptoms, and adverse effects were assessed at baseline, after 6 weeks, and at 12 and 24 weeks follow-up. Both groups experienced significant reductions in pain intensity and functional disability after the intervention. Depression and anxiety showed significant improvements during the intervention but did not persist at follow-up. No statistically significant differences were observed between the groups for the studied variables. The study concluded that both protocols are beneficial for CNLBP patients, suggesting that lumbar segmental stabilization exercises alone are sufficient for reducing pain and functional disability.
Exploring the causal impact of mitochondrial dysfunction on epilepsy: a mendelian randomization study.
Zhang LM, Wang F, Zhang BR … +5 more , Zhang QJ, Zhu YL, Gao SJ, Wang H, Liu MW
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41810643 · Full text
Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes critically to epileptogenesis. Therefore, identifying key mitochondrial function-associated genes in epilepsy may provide novel insights into its pathogenesis. We employed expression...
Mitochondrial dysfunction contributes critically to epileptogenesis. Therefore, identifying key mitochondrial function-associated genes in epilepsy may provide novel insights into its pathogenesis. We employed expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) and Mendelian randomization analyses to assess mitochondrial-epilepsy causality, with leave-one-out validation confirming the reliability and directionality of the results. The results revealed that hydroxyacylglutathione hydrolase (HAGH), oxysterol-binding protein-related protein 1A (OSBPL1A) and pantothenate kinase 2 (PANK2) were pivotal epileptogenic genes. HAGH modulates the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) signaling and fatty acid metabolism pathways. OSBPL1A mediates apoptotic and reactive oxygen species (ROS) pathways. PANK2 regulates phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling and Notch signaling cascades. Additionally, these genes participate in inflammatory pathways, including T cell receptor (TCR), mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK), and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) signaling. We demonstrated that HAGH, OSBPL1A, and PANK2 constitute core pathogenic mechanisms in epilepsy. These genes potentially govern epileptogenesis through mitochondrial regulation via neuroinflammatory, immunomodulatory, and apoptotic pathways. Our findings provide a foundation for investigating epileptogenesis, discovering therapeutic targets, and identifying prognostic biomarkers.
Therapeutic potential of p-cymene in mitigating alcohol-induced damage in umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells through restoration of Nanog, VEGF, and antioxidants levels; in silico and in vitro approaches.
Aziz N, Maqbool T, Arooj M … +5 more , Afzal HS, Altaf A, Atif M, Naz S, Malik MNH
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41779562 · Full text
Human stem cells can divide and differentiate into various cell types. Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are multipotent cells with high regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory propert...
Human stem cells can divide and differentiate into various cell types. Umbilical cord-derived mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) are multipotent cells with high regenerative, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory properties. Ethanol, the main component of alcoholic beverages, induces cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in cells. In recent years, natural compounds have gained attention for their potential protective effects against ethanol-induced cellular damage. p-Cymene is one such compound that acts as an antioxidant. This study aimed to evaluate the potential of p-cymene to reduce the harmful effects of alcohol on ethanol-induced cytotoxicity and oxidative stress in UC-MSCs through in silico and in vitro approaches. In silico pharmacokinetic and toxicity analyses of p-cymene were used, followed by in vitro evaluation using ethanol-injured UC-MSCs. Cell viability, antioxidant [glutathione (GSH), super-oxide dismutase (SOD)], inflammatory, proliferative, apoptotic, and wound healing assays were performed across different concentrations to assess protective effects. The pharmacokinetic analysis showed that p-cymene exhibited considerable pharmacokinetic properties by following Lipinski's Rule of Five. Toxicity analysis revealed no toxic effects of p-cymene, suggesting its potential as a natural compound. Further in vitro experimentation showed that p-cymene independently restored cell viability, reduced inflammation, stabilized Nanog, improved vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), enhanced antioxidants (GSH, SOD), promoted wound healing, and reduced cell death in ethanol-injured cells, with the 50 µM concentration being the most effective. These findings support our hypothesis that p-cymene protects UC-MSCs from ethanol-induced damage.
Precision application of target-controlled infusion of esketamine combined with sufentanil in anesthesia for thoracoscopic surgery and its effect on hemodynamics, postoperative pain, and safety.
Qi T, Liu X, Liu S … +2 more , Yin A, Zhang L
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41779561 · Full text
We aimed to expound the precise application of target-controlled infusion (TCI) of esketamine combined with sufentanil in anesthesia for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and its effect on hemodynamics, postope...
We aimed to expound the precise application of target-controlled infusion (TCI) of esketamine combined with sufentanil in anesthesia for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) and its effect on hemodynamics, postoperative pain, and safety. Eighty patients scheduled for thoracoscopic procedures were randomly assigned to either a control group [n=40, conventional empiric anesthesia (sufentanil plus propofol)] or an observation group [n=40, TCI of esketamine and sufentanil]. Hemodynamic indices [mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), central venous pressure (CVP), stroke volume (SV), cardiac output (CO), systemic vascular resistance (SVR), and oxygen saturation (SpO2)] were recorded before anesthesia (T0), after induction of anesthesia (T1), 30 min of anesthesia (T2), and at the end of surgery (T3). Recovery profiles [length of stay in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU), awakening time], Ramsay sedation scores (T0-T3), visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores at 2, 24, and 48 h post-op, and adverse event rates were compared. The observation group showed smaller hemodynamic fluctuations from T1 to T3. At T3, this group had higher MAP, SV, and CO (P<0.05), steadier CVP and SVR, faster recovery (PACU stay and awakening times shorter, P<0.01), lower VAS scores at 24 and 48 h, higher Ramsay scores at T2 and T3, and lower overall adverse event rates (P=0.018) than the control group. TCI of esketamine plus sufentanil improved intraoperative hemodynamic stability, shortened recovery, enhanced early analgesia, and reduced adverse reactions in VATS, supporting its precision and safety.
Drug-related proteinuria: a vigilance analysis based on the FAERS database.
Mao Z, Zhou L, Nie Y … +2 more , Wang H, Zhang J
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41779560 · Full text
Proteinuria is a prevalent and significant adverse response (ADR) associated with numerous pharmaceuticals, and we employed the online public FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to investigate a cohort of...
Proteinuria is a prevalent and significant adverse response (ADR) associated with numerous pharmaceuticals, and we employed the online public FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) database to investigate a cohort of medications that may induce this ADR. This analysis aimed to identify and assess the most prevalent and significant medicines linked to the risk of proteinuria. We examined the publicly accessible FAERS database from 2004 to 2024. Utilizing the search term "proteinuria" and classifying by generic drug name, we aggregated reports of drug-related responses or trends in proteinuria, subsequently analyzing the data through a combination of ratio-of-reported-ratio (ROR) and proportional-reported-ratio (PRR) to identify and examine twelve medications that may induce proteinuria. A total of 16,355 adverse event reports related to proteinuria were identified in the FAERS database between 2004 and 2024. Among these, 21 drugs demonstrated statistically significant associations with proteinuria based on multivariate logistic regression, with the highest signals observed for voclosporin (ROR: 63.57) and lenvatinib (ROR: 41.01). Drug classes most strongly associated included anticancer agents, immunosuppressants, and antiviral drugs. Notably, the onset of proteinuria varied significantly across drug types, with anti-inflammatory agents showing the earliest median onset (5.4 days), while digestive system drugs and antivirals exhibited delayed onset exceeding 1,000 days on average. These findings underscore the need for early and long-term renal monitoring depending on drug category. Prompt assessment of nephrotoxicity risk is essential during the initial phase of medication, hence offering a more precise foundation for drug screening and optimization.
Brief results of heterotopic xenotransplantation of meningioma into the peritoneum of Wistar rats: an experimental study.
Silva Junior LFMD, Santos MJSD, Carmo AOD … +5 more , Silva ROL, Campos MAG, Silva GEB, Santos OJD, Salgado Filho N
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41779559 · Full text
Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors, and xenotransplantation models help to study their behavior and test therapies. This research developed a model implanting WHO grade I meningothelial meningiom...
Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors, and xenotransplantation models help to study their behavior and test therapies. This research developed a model implanting WHO grade I meningothelial meningioma into the peritoneum of immunosuppressed rats, comparing it to subcutaneous implantation. The primary objective was to analyze tumor growth and progression, focusing on the role of the microenvironment. Peritoneal implants (1.87±0.25 cm) grew significantly larger than subcutaneous implants (0.86±0.14 cm) (P<0.0001). An inverse correlation was found between weight variation and the difference in implant sizes, indicating that weight loss in animals was associated with larger implant growth. Animals that lost weight had significantly larger implants compared to those that gained weight. Implantation site and the animal's weight variation can significantly impact the growth of meningothelial meningioma fragments, with peritoneal implants showing greater growth and weight loss correlating with larger tumors.
Sorting nexin 10 knockdown: new strategies for alleviating sepsis-associated acute lung injury.
Wei M, Yang J, Yu Z … +6 more , Li S, Xie H, Yuan S, Huang Q, Zhang H, Feng J
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41711764 · Full text
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common complication of sepsis in connection with excessive inflammation and accumulation of oxidative stress. Sorting nexin 10 (SNX10) is a sorting nexin family member involved in inflammator...
Acute lung injury (ALI) is a common complication of sepsis in connection with excessive inflammation and accumulation of oxidative stress. Sorting nexin 10 (SNX10) is a sorting nexin family member involved in inflammatory processes. This study aimed to explore the function of SNX10 in ALI. The cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) model was established to induce ALI in C57BL/6J mice. CLP mice exhibited elevated levels of SNX10 expression in the lung tissues. Mice were intratracheally injected with 50 μL adenovirus (108 PFU) containing short hairpin RNA plasmid targeting SNX10. SNX10 knockdown mice showed remission of CLP-induced pulmonary edema, hemorrhage, inflammatory infiltration, and thickened alveolar septum. SNX10 downregulation reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, increased superoxide dismutase activity and glutathione content, and decreased malondialdehyde content in the lung tissues. SNX10 knockdown decreased the phosphorylation of NF-κB p65 and its nuclear translocation, thus inhibiting the levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α and interleukin (IL)-6. Furthermore, SNX10 downregulation inhibited the NLRP3, p20 caspase 1, and ASC protein levels and the levels of IL-18 and IL-1β. A549 cells were treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) (10 μg/mL) for 24 h to simulate the inflammatory condition and SNX10 was knocked down using small interfering RNA. SNX10 knockdown cells showed increased viability and less ROS accumulation. Consistent with the in vivo results, the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and the secretion of inflammatory cytokines were inhibited after SNX10 knockdown in A549 cells. In summary, SNX10 downregulation mitigated sepsis-induced oxidative stress and pulmonary inflammation by inhibiting the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway.
Perinatal and laboratory determinants of fortified human milk use: a case-control study.
Tavares CBG, Zacarias JMV, Souza VH … +2 more , Visentainer JV, Visentainer JEL
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41711763 · Full text
This case-control study compared perinatal and laboratory factors between preterm infants who received unfortified human milk (HM) and those who received HM fortified with FM85®. The sample included 38 low birth weight (...
This case-control study compared perinatal and laboratory factors between preterm infants who received unfortified human milk (HM) and those who received HM fortified with FM85®. The sample included 38 low birth weight (LBW) preterm infants admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit between June 2022 and May 2023, excluding those with comorbidities or formula use. Perinatal variables including gestational age, birth weight, head circumference (HC), and mode of delivery were analyzed for associations with fortifier use using chi-squared and Student's t-tests. Laboratory values were compared across nutritional stages using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney tests. Very preterm infants (confidence interval [CI]: 4.02-21.10; P<0.001) and those with LBW (CI: 1.30-5.75; P=0.009) were more likely to receive the fortifier, particularly those with poor weight progression during trophic feeding (CI: 1.12-16.30; P=0.039). Altered HC (CI: 1.49-8.24; P=0.004) and cesarean delivery (CI: 2.24-11.30; P<0.001) were also associated with FM85® use. Both groups showed laboratory abnormalities with neutrophils, initially elevated, decreasing (P<0.0001), while lymphocytes increased (P<0.0001). Red blood cell (P=0.00026) and hemoglobin levels (P=0.00007) worsened. Sodium and calcium levels rose significantly (P<0.0001 for both). HM fortification did not significantly alter most laboratory values, except for red blood cell count. LBW, altered HC, and cesarean delivery were associated with a greater likelihood of fortifier use. Immunological changes occurred even with fortification. Homologous fortifiers may represent a more physiological alternative.
Cardiovascular system characteristics in HIV/AIDS patients with talaromycosis.
Nong L, Ma J, Zheng Y … +4 more , Zhu Q, Wei C, Chen J, Li S
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41711762 · Full text
Patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are more vulnerable to opportunistic infections (OIs) such as Talaromycosis marneffei (TSM), which is associated with a high mortality rate. Nevertheless, the effe...
Patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) are more vulnerable to opportunistic infections (OIs) such as Talaromycosis marneffei (TSM), which is associated with a high mortality rate. Nevertheless, the effect of TSM on the cardiovascular system of affected patients remains elusive. To that end, this research aimed to investigate the impact of TSM on the cardiovascular system in the individuals with HIV/AIDS. Participants were assigned to the HIV/AIDS patients group or the HIV/AIDS patients with TSM (HIV/AIDS+TSM) group. A total of 120 individuals were included in the present study, with 59 in the HIV/AIDS group and 61 in the HIV/AIDS+TSM group. Myocardial serum markers, color Doppler cardiovascular ultrasound (CCU), and 24-h ambulatory electrocardiograph (AECG) data were collected and analyzed for both groups. Compared with the HIV/AIDS group, the HIV/AIDS+TSM group exhibited a significant increase in left and right diameters of the right atrium (LR-RA) and right ventricle (LR-RV), while the anteroposterior diameter of the right ventricle outflow tract (AT-RVOT), the interventricular septal thickness (IVS), and the left ventricular posterior wall thickness (LVPW) were significantly reduced. The HIV/AIDS+TSM group showed higher AECG abnormality rates, particularly for non-sinus rhythms and ST-T changes. Our findings demonstrated significant cardiac functional alterations in HIV/AIDS patients with TSM co-infection compared to HIV/AIDS alone, underscoring the necessity for enhanced cardiovascular monitoring in this vulnerable population.
Psychometric properties of the Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale for assessing physical and mental fatigability in Brazilian older adults (PFS-Brasil).
Santos MSB, Bento-Torres J, Santana LL … +6 more , Costa AAD, Gesta IPPC, Silva LM, Picanço-Diniz CW, Glynn NW, Bento-Torres NVO
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41711761 · Full text
Fatigability is critical for understanding older adults' physical and mental health. The Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale (PFS) is widely employed to measure perceived fatigability, reflecting how fatigue impacts performanc...
Fatigability is critical for understanding older adults' physical and mental health. The Pittsburgh Fatigability Scale (PFS) is widely employed to measure perceived fatigability, reflecting how fatigue impacts performance and its association with adverse health outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PFS adapted for Brazilian older adults (PFS-Brasil), focusing on perceived physical and mental fatigability. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) validated the bifactorial model. Internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach's alpha, while test-retest reliability was evaluated through the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman Plot. Convergent validity was determined by correlating PFS-Brasil score with physical and cognitive performance measures, and ceiling and floor effects were analyzed. CFA confirmed the two-factor structure of the PFS-Brasil. The Physical and Mental subscales showed high internal consistency (α=0.89 and 0.86, respectively). Test-retest reliability demonstrated good agreement (ICC for Physical=0.84; Mental=0.83). Higher fatigability score correlated with poorer physical performance on the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) and the 6-Minute Walk Test (6MWT), with physical score showing weak to moderate correlations (P=-0.22 to -0.37) and mental score showing weak correlations (P=-0.20 to -0.25). Mental fatigability was weakly correlated with inhibitory control. The PFS-Brasil demonstrated robust psychometric properties, supporting its reliability and validity for assessing perceived physical and mental fatigue in older adults. Its use is recommended in clinical and research settings to identify individuals at risk of physical and psychological decline, promoting better health outcomes and quality of life in aging.
Energy production pathways of female soccer players during championships: a metabolomics approach.
Nascimento MBA, Gouveia MMS, Santos MPP … +7 more , Rocha-Junior ERD, Crispim AC, Bento ES, Aquino TM, Sousa FAB, Araujo GG, Ataide-Silva T
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41711760 · Full text
Athletes mobilize both aerobic and anaerobic systems to produce energy during soccer matches, and it drastically modifies the concentration of metabolites related to muscle damage and energy metabolism. The fatigue-assoc...
Athletes mobilize both aerobic and anaerobic systems to produce energy during soccer matches, and it drastically modifies the concentration of metabolites related to muscle damage and energy metabolism. The fatigue-associated mechanism seems to encompass tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) disturbances, with a greater contribution of lipid-pathway metabolites in women during soccer matches. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effects of matches played during two championships on the metabolites and pathways associated with energy production in female players have not yet been described. Metabolomic analysis in sports context can better characterize the main metabolites related to energy production and the metabolic pathways. The aim of this study was to describe the variation in metabolites over the course of two championships in female players' urine, highlighting the occurrence of energy production-associated metabolites and the metabolic pathways they may arise from. Urine samples were collected before and after six matches of two championships. Nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomic approach was used for this purpose. Citrate, succinate, 1-methylnicotinamide, alpha-hydroxyisobutyrate, malonic and glycolic acids, phosphocreatine, and lactate were the compounds originated from energy generation processes with high scores in variable importance prediction (VIP), impacting on partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) groupings of players. Phenylalanine biosynthesis, tyrosine and tryptophan biosynthesis, and the TCA cycle were mobilized before the matches, and the metabolism of taurine and hypotaurine were modulated across both moments.
Expression of MIR155HG, LOC283856, KIAA0125, and LOC100190986 as potential prognostic and predictive biomarkers for breast cancer.
Pavanelli AC, Mangone FRR, Jesus GP … +1 more , Nagai MA
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41670092 · Full text
Accumulating evidence has pointed out that the altered expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is involved in the physiopathology of breast cancer (BC). However, the role of lncRNAs in BC progression remains poorly...
Accumulating evidence has pointed out that the altered expression of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) is involved in the physiopathology of breast cancer (BC). However, the role of lncRNAs in BC progression remains poorly understood. Here, we evaluated cDNA microarray data from a previous study from our group to investigate the effects of SPARC expression on the transcriptome of MCF7 cells before and after treatment with docetaxel. We analyzed our gene expression data to identify differentially expressed long non-coding RNAs (DELncRNAs). In combination with in silico analysis, we selected a group of DELncRNAs with potential prognostic and predictive value for BC patients with tumors of different intrinsic subtypes. Overall, we identified 260 DELncRNAs comparing MCF7 cells with different expressions of SPARC after docetaxel treatment. Nine DELncRNAs (LOC646762, FLJ13224, CASC2, LOC100130691, MGC12916, LOC100190986, LOC283856, KIAA0125, and MIR155HG) showed significant associations with BC survival on the KM Plotter platform. Of these 9 DELncRNAs, MIR155HG, LOC283856, LOC100190986, and KIAA0125 were significantly correlated with recurrence-free survival and overall survival rates of BC patients, suggesting they could help predict the outcome of BC patients as prognostic factors. Moreover, in silico analysis showed that these DELncRNAs were able to predict BC patients' responses to different treatment protocols.
Subclinical atherosclerosis in rheumatoid arthritis: a case cohort analysis from ELSA-Brasil.
Estrada PF, Cavalcante MRN, Santos IS … +5 more , Tebar WR, Meneghini V, Lotufo PA, Goulart AC, Bensenor IM
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41637288 · Full text
This study evaluated prevalence, incidence, and progression of carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and carotid artery plaques (CAP) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients compared with controls during 8 years of follow-...
This study evaluated prevalence, incidence, and progression of carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) and carotid artery plaques (CAP) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients compared with controls during 8 years of follow-up. A case-cohort analysis of data from the ELSA-Brasil cohort was conducted, with cIMT and CAP measured by carotid ultrasound at baseline and follow-up. Linear regression was used to estimate cIMT mean and progression (ΔcIMT). Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (OR) for elevated cIMT (≥75th percentile), CAP prevalence, incidence, and progression. Models were adjusted for sociodemographic and cardiovascular risk factors, excluding participants with prior cardiovascular disease. A total of 1,289 participants (188 RA, 1,101 controls) were included in the cIMT analysis and 585 (93 RA, 492 controls) in the CAP analysis. RA was not associated with baseline cIMT (β=0.00; 95%CI: -0.02-0.02; P=0.930), high cIMT (OR=1.04; 95%CI: 0.69-1.57; P=0.864), or ΔcIMT (β=0.00; 95%CI: -0.01-0.02; P=0.688). Incidence of elevated cIMT showed a non-significant trend toward higher risk in RA (OR=2.01; 95%CI: 0.88-4.59; P=0.098). No associations were found for CAP prevalence at baseline (OR=1.64; 95%CI: 0.92-2.91; P=0.090), prevalence at follow-up (OR=0.75; 95%CI: 0.41-1.36; P=0.342), incidence (OR=0.78; 95%CI: 0.37-1.63; P=0.508), or progression (β=-0.33; 95%CI: -0.72-0.07; P=0.102). This study found no independent association between RA and cIMT or CAP.
IL-6 and TGF-β1 as biomarkers of schistosomiasis-associated pulmonary hypertension in a murine model.
Roque AC, Stockmann IS, Acencio MMP … +8 more , Silva CSR, Espírito-Santo MCD, Pinto PLS, Mauad T, Irigoyen MC, Crajoinas RO, Souza R, Salibe-Filho W
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41637287 · Full text
Schistosomiasis can lead to vascular damage resulting in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Although its pathophysiology remains unclear, cytokine imbalance is known to play a key role. This study aimed to evaluate s...
Schistosomiasis can lead to vascular damage resulting in pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). Although its pathophysiology remains unclear, cytokine imbalance is known to play a key role. This study aimed to evaluate serum mediators in association with hemodynamic, echocardiographic, and histological parameters in a murine model of Schistosoma mansoni-induced pulmonary hypertension (Sch-PH). Twenty male C57BL/6 mice were randomized into infected group and non-infected control group. Sch-PH was induced by intraperitoneal inoculation of S. mansoni eggs (240 eggs/g body weight), followed by intravenous administration (175 eggs/g). After 21 days, systolic pulmonary artery pressure was measured by right ventricular catheterization (RHC), and cardiac function was assessed by transthoracic echocardiography. Animals were then euthanized for collection of lungs and heart for histopathology, and blood samples were obtained for quantification of interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, and tumor necrosis factor (TGF)-β1 by ELISA. The Sch-PH group had significantly lower tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion and pulmonary artery acceleration time/pulmonary ejection time ratio (P<0.05), and increased pulmonary artery peak flow, tricuspid and pulmonary regurgitation, IL-6, and TGF-β1 levels (P<0.05). IL-10 was undetectable. Lung tissue showed inflammatory infiltrates, alveolar and perivascular granulomas, and S. mansoni eggs. Pulmonary arteries exhibited intimal thickening, medial hypertrophy, and fibrosis. Cardiac tissue presented inflammatory foci, fibroblast proliferation, and thickening of connective septa. IL-6 and TGF-β1 were elevated in Sch-PH and correlated with echocardiographic and hemodynamic alterations. These findings suggest a role for these mediators in Sch-PH pathogenesis and highlight the potential for targeting inflammatory pathways in this condition.
Cellular and molecular immunomodulatory potential of red wine polyphenols in apical periodontitis.
Ricci R, Pereira BM, Alvarado JDA … +11 more , Sales-Junior RO, Machado NES, Santos DCD, Pederro FHM, Ferraz MC, Frasnelli SCT, Rodrigues JSM, Oliveira SHP, Cintra LTA, Kishen A, Gomes-Filho JE
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41637286 · Full text
This in vitro and in vivo study assessed dealcoholized red wine (DRW) effects on cytokine profile in macrophage (MQ)-periodontal ligament fibroblast (PDLFs) co-cultures and its impact on blood parameters, inflammatory/bo...
This in vitro and in vivo study assessed dealcoholized red wine (DRW) effects on cytokine profile in macrophage (MQ)-periodontal ligament fibroblast (PDLFs) co-cultures and its impact on blood parameters, inflammatory/bone markers, cytokine expression, and periapical bone loss in rat apical periodontitis (AP). A MQ-PDLFs co-culture and Wistar rats with induced AP were exposed to DRW or red wine (W), with DMEM or water as controls (C). Cell cultures were analyzed for cytokine profile using a multiplex immunoassay. Rats underwent blood profiling, radiography, qRT-PCR, and histometric analysis of AP. Statistical significance was set at 5%. Multiplex analysis of the co-culture revealed that DRW induced lower interleukin (IL)-6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α levels compared to C and W, higher IL-10 level than C, and lower IL-1β level only compared to W (P<0.05). Radiographic images confirmed AP development in rats. DRW showed a reduced monocyte count compared to C (P<0.05), but the inflammatory/bone markers in plasma were similar (P>0.05). Additionally, DRW showed lower IL-1β expression than C, and higher IL-10 expression only compared to W in AP (P<0.05). Periapical bone loss was similar among groups (P>0.05). In conclusion, DRW promoted an anti-inflammatory profile in co-cultures and in vivo. However, these effects did not translate into differences in lesion size or bone loss within the experimental model evaluated.
Interplay between volemic balance and the intestinal tract: insights on biomarkers and diagnostic tests used to assess intestinal morphofunctional barrier.
Neto VLM, Araújo ICD, Rôla TBM … +4 more , Magalhães PJC, Rodrigues FAP, Lima AAM, Santos AA
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41637285 · Full text
Volemic control is essential for maintaining tissue perfusion and fluid homeostasis, with cardiorenal and endothelial mediators regulating intravascular composition, often impaired in pathological states. Notably, intest...
Volemic control is essential for maintaining tissue perfusion and fluid homeostasis, with cardiorenal and endothelial mediators regulating intravascular composition, often impaired in pathological states. Notably, intestinal epithelial cells are highly sensitive to volume fluctuations, resulting in changes in intestinal permeability that may not be detected by current diagnostic methods. This review offers a comprehensive description of the main mediators involved in volemic regulation, their impact on intestinal morphofunctionality, and specific details regarding epithelial cells. Additionally, key biomarkers - especially lactulose/mannitol - for assessing intestinal barrier disruption are highlighted, and a novel approach is proposed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry to investigate gut alterations in heart failure and exercise-induced stress, which are silent and neglected conditions with significant repercussions on intestinal barrier function.
Complex dynamics of glutamate-induced calcium responses in astrocytes from the nucleus of the solitary tract of mice.
Souza MM, Zacharias LR, Leão RM
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41637284 · Full text
Astrocytes play critical roles in the physiological responses of the central nervous system (CNS). Located near pre- and postsynaptic sites, they detect released neurotransmitters and gliotransmitters that modulate neuro...
Astrocytes play critical roles in the physiological responses of the central nervous system (CNS). Located near pre- and postsynaptic sites, they detect released neurotransmitters and gliotransmitters that modulate neuronal function. Astrocytic responses to neurotransmitter excitation often involve increases in cytoplasmic calcium, triggering the release of gliotransmitters that further influence neuronal activity. The nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), a brainstem region integrating diverse physiological functions such as cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and metabolic reflexes, is modulated by astrocytic activity. To better understand the dynamics and diversity of calcium responses in NTS astrocytes to the primary excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate, we investigated individual subpostremal NTS astrocytes in brainstem slices from mice using the calcium fluorescent dye Fluo-4. We observed that only a subset of astrocytes exhibited an increase in cytoplasmic calcium in response to glutamate, while a smaller fraction showed a decrease in cytoplasmic calcium. Interestingly, in the presence of tetrodotoxin, which inhibits action potentials, the proportion of astrocytes with increased calcium levels was halved, and most astrocytes instead exhibited decreased calcium levels. Further analysis revealed that response peaks were correlated with total calcium levels after glutamate application, whereas response latencies and widths of positive calcium signals were not correlated with peak values. Negative peaks have distinct kinetics from positive peaks, corroborating that they represent different processes. These findings demonstrate that NTS astrocytes constitute a heterogeneous population with diverse responses to extracellular glutamate, highlighting their complexity in modulating brainstem functions.
Bakterion: development of a serious game for microbiology education.
Campos LR, Morais HV, Seabra G … +2 more , Santos KVD, Araújo DCSA
Braz J Med Biol Res · 2026 · PMID 41637283 · Full text
Microbiology education is traditionally lecture-based, with few studies exploring active methodologies such as serious games. In this context, this study aimed to develop a serious card game, 'Bakterion', as a teaching t...
Microbiology education is traditionally lecture-based, with few studies exploring active methodologies such as serious games. In this context, this study aimed to develop a serious card game, 'Bakterion', as a teaching tool for antimicrobial education. The game was designed based on Game Design Thinking, following the stages of Empathy, Ideation, and Implementation. Inspired by the game Munchkin®, Bakterion includes a rulebook, markers, and 200 cards featuring illustrations based on electron microscopy and laboratory materials. The cards were designed to be easy to use, allowing players to correlate elements even without prior specialized knowledge. The game presents an innovative approach to microbiology education, fostering student engagement and active participation. Bakterion may serve as a promising tool for teaching microbiology and antimicrobial resistance, complementing traditional methods. Future studies should assess the impact of Bakterion on student learning.
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